Best Dance Classes For Kids In Atlanta
Dance classes help children develop discipline and focus and shows the reward of hard work. Even if your child is not destined to be the next Baryshnikov, there is a real benefit to teaching him or her to develop an appreciation for the art. With the popularity of television shows like "So You Think You Can Dance," your child may be interested in trying out her talent. We've outlined a few of Atlanta's best dance studios here for your review.
The Dancer's Studio/Backstage
8560 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 118
Alpharetta, GA 30022
(770) 993-2623
www.dancers-backstage.com
Jonnie Kelly has been running The Dancer's Studio in Atlanta for over 20 years, and she remains one of the greatest teachers for children in Atlanta. If you want your child to develop a love of dance, this is a great place. There are classes in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, and there is a pre-professional company for kids who demonstrate a real commitment. Whatever the child's level of dedication, Jonnie and her staff will help her in her overall transition into a healthy, happy adult.
Metropolitan Ballet Theatre
11460 Maxwell Road
Alpharetta, GA 30009
(678) 297-2800
www.metropolitanballet.org
Maniya Barredo was the prima ballerina of the Atlanta Ballet for 20 years, after first studying at the New York City Ballet alongside luminaries like Gelsey Kirkland. The impressive duration of her career testifies to the fact that she understands how to develop as a strong, healthy dancer. She now devotes her time to her ballet school and the associated company, and this is one of the best schools in Atlanta for dancers interested in pursuing a serious career. Ms. Barredo also emphasizes the importance of her students' schoolwork, as she understands that even the most devoted dancer should obtain an education as well.
Atlanta Ballet
Chastain Square
4279 Roswell Road, Suite 703
Atlanta, GA 30342
(404) 303-1501
www.centre.atlantaballet.com
Naturally, the Atlanta Ballet itself is always going to be one of the most popular places for children to take dance classes. From creative movement classes for the tiniest tots to a pre-professional program for teenagers with a serious commitment to dance, Atlanta Ballet has a wide range of class options. Naturally, it's not only ballet, but also jazz, hip hop and other dance disciplines, and there are specific classes geared towards teaching boys on their own. There are three locations, so find the one that works best for you.
Dan & Company
Dunwoody Village
5523 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338
(770) 393-9519
www.danandcompany.com
Another one of Atlanta's longest-lasting dance studios for children is Dan & Co. With two locations, including one in Dunwoody Village, this is a convenient school to take your tots starting at three to four years old. It even offers jazz and hip hop-themed birthday parties for kids who really love dancing. It's a fun, less serious place to study the art and a great way to keep kids enjoying exercise. There are also summer camps to keep your kids active during their vacations.
Good Moves
1015 Edgewood Ave. N.E.
Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 518-1646
www.goodmoves.org
You won't find a more gentle, beautiful spirit than Annette Lewis, the director of Good Moves. She has studied with all of the great icons of modern dance, and she has a true passion for teaching children to enjoy the art. Some of her former students have gone on to great success in the dance world, but all of them carry with them a love for Miss Annette. The studio teaches ballet and modern dance to students as young as three years old and also has a summer program.
Related: Best Museums For Dates In Atlanta
Keely Herrick is a freelance writer. Her work can be found on Examiner.com. "
